History of Kumbh
According to popular belief, the demigods and demons were fighting over the Amrit (immortality nectar). Lord Vishnu decided to hide the nectar to protect it from the demons. While transferring it, he spilled a few drops at four places on earth which are the current locations where Kumbh Mela takes place. The first documented mention of Kumbh can be traced back to 2000 years ago. It is believed that it began during the reign of King Harshavardhana, however, as per Hindu mythology, Kumbh has been taking place since the beginning of life.
Kumbh in Nashik
Kumbh Mela in Nashik is popularly known as Nashik-Trimbakeshwar Simhastha. During this auspicious period, devotees take a dip in the holy Godavari river and pray for salvation. As the location of Kumbh is decided by the movement of planets in the zodiac, it is held in Nashik when the sun and Jupiter land in the Leo zodiac sign.
During this month-long fair, devotees wash away their sins at two ghats called Ramkund and Kushavarta. The fair takes place at the Trimbakeshwar Shiva Temple. It is believed that by taking a dip in the river, one can achieve Nirvana from the cycle of birth and death.
Next Kumbh Mela in Nashik
As the Maha Kumbh takes place in rotation in the above-mentioned four places, the next one is scheduled to be organised in Nashik from October 2026. This year, the Kumbh is scheduled to start on January 14th (Makar Sankranti) in Prayagraj at Triveni Sangam.
